Fastening means



A ril 13, 1937.

LOMBARD 2,077,120

FASTENING MEANS- Filed Dec. 8, 1936 5 Sheets-Sheet 1 April 13, 193?.

H, G. LoMBARD 2,077,120

FASTENING MEANS Filed Dec. 8, 1936 5 Sheets-Sheet 2 April 13, 1937.

H. G. LOMBARD FASTENING MEANS Filed Dec. 8, 1936 5 Sheets-Sheet 3 April 1937. H. G. LOMBARD 2,077,120

FAS TENING MEAN S Filed Dec. 8, 1936 S Sheets-Sheet 4 IIIA VIIIIIIIIII, v

April 13, 1937. H, LQMBARD 2,077,120

FASTENING MEANS Filed Dec. 8, 1936 5 Sheets-Sheet 5 Z:2 g 517 @517 i2 Patented Apr. 13, 1937 PATENT OFFICE FASTENING MEANS Herman G. Lombard, Washington, D. 0., assignor to Albert H. Tinnerman', Cleveland, Ohio Application December 8, 1936, Serial No. 114,825

16 Claims. (Cl. 24-213) This invention relates to fastening means of general application and of the type constructed from stock having a substantial width as for example flattened wire or metal sheet material such as sheet spring steel, sheet metal, cold rolled metal and the like.

The fastening means of this invention comprise various forms of devices in which the shank structures consist of relatively yieldable leg elements the longitudinal edges of which are out of line such as to provide an engagement thereof under tension in fastening position against the side walls or edges of an aperture in work.

Fastening devices of the type with which this invention deals are preferably constructed of metal sheet material of suitable thickness, usually of either strip stock or blank stampings. The forming of the fastening devices is such that the legs of the shank are so disposed with respect to each other that they are relatively yieldable. This yieldable relation of the legs in such 'types of fasteners is important in that on applying a device to work in an aperture of less width or diameter than the spacing or overall width of the legs, a tension is set up in the legs which tension provides a friction, pressure fit of the device in fastening position and is intended to prevent looseness of the device in such position.

Such fastening devices are used somewhat satisfactorily in applications where no great degree of movement or vibration takes place in the work or members fastened. However, where any degree of strain, jarring, or vibration takes place the shanks of such types of fasteners tend to loosen from their fastening position and eventually become completely removed due to the fact the legs comprising the shank do not possess sufficient holding ability under such conditions.

It is therefore an object of this invention to provide a' one-piece fastening device in which the shank is composed of relatively yieldable leg elements so disposed with respect to each other as to allow quick, easy insertion of the device into an aperture in work by a flexing and relative yielding of the legs, yet, when in fastening position, have such a degree of set, stiffness, rigidity and tension stored therein through contact and compression against the side walls of the aperture that substantial resistance is offered to withdrawal of the device fromfastening position, and extraordinary resistance is effected against loosening, or tendency of the device moving out of applied position of its own accord due to vibration, jarring or strain set up in the memand are offset laterally with respect to each bers fastened, or in the member in which the device is applied.

It is a further object of this invention/ to provide a one-piece fastening device in which the shank is composed of relatively yieldable leg elements provided with integral projecting or lug means such as teeth or shoulders designed to securely engage the work in locked fastening position and retain the shank rigidly in such position under tension set up due to the rela- 10 tive contraction or compression of the legs, whereby an effective lock of the device in applied position is obtained.

Further objects of the invention will appear as a description thereof proceeds with referenceto 15 the accompanying drawings in which like reference characters designate like parts throughout the same and in which:

Fig. 1 is a perspective view of one form of fastening device in which the leg elements lie substantially adjacent each other in distinct planes and are offset laterally with respect to each other.

Fig. 2 is side elevation of Fig. 1.

Fig. 3 illustrates the fastener of Figs. 1 and 2 seated in an aperture in work, showing the looking action of the offset legs. a

Fig. 4 is a top plan view of Fig. 3 taken, along line 44 showing the locking position of the legs and teeth thereon in a rectangular aperture in work.

Fig. 5 is'a top plan view of Fig. 3 taken along line 44 showing the locking position of the legs and teeth thereon in a round aperture in work.

Fig. 6 is a perspective view of a form of fastening device in which the legs lie in spaced planes other.

Fig. 7 is a side elevation of the fastener shown in Fig. 6.

Fig. 8 shows the fastener of Figs. 6 and 7 ap- 40 plied to a rectangular aperture in work.

Fig. 9 is a sectional view of the fastener of Fig. 8 showing the locking position of the legs and the teeth thereon as applied to a round aperture in work. I 45 Fig. 10 is a section view of the fastener of Fig. 8 showing the locking position of the-legs and the teeth thereon as applied to a rectangular aperture in work.

Fig. 11 is a front elevation of a form of fastener in which the legs are laterally offset and the outer longitudinal edges thereof are provided with cam surfaces designed. to permit withdrawal of the device.

Fig. 12 is a side elevation of Fig. 11. 55

. Figs. 11-13 inclusive, applied to an aperture in work with the cam surfaces maintaining the device in applied position under tension set up by the offset relation of the legs.

Fig. 15 is a top plan view of Fig. 14.

Fig. 16 is a view in front elevation of a form of device in which the legs are laterally oflset and the outer longitudinal edges thereof are provided with looking shoulders.

Fig. 17 is a side elevation of the device shown in Fig, 16.

Fig. 18 is a perspective view of the fastener shown in Figs. 16 and 1'7.

Fig. 19 shows in top plan the device represented in Figs. 16-18 inclusive, as applied to a round aperture in work.

Fig. 20 is a similar view as applied to 9. rectangular aperture in work.

Fig. 21 shows applied in fastening position the device of Figs. 16-20 inclusive, with the shoulders on the legs in locking relation to the work.

Fig. 22 is a side elevation of Fig. 21.

Fig. 23 shows a form of device, adapted for use in relatively thick work, in which the shank of the device is elongated and the locking shoulders are formed on the legs near the leading end thereof.

Fig. 24 is a side elevation of the shank structure shown in Fig. 23 with the head sections de-: formed to seat in a cap or button shown in section.

Figs. 25-37, inclusive, disclose various forms of fastening devices constructed from stamped blanks as distinguished from strip material, Fig. 25 representing a form of blank in which the legs may be laterally oflset simply by a stretchvice showing the shank structure which may be obtained from the blank of Fig. 25.

Fig. 27 is a side elevation of Fig. 26.

Fig. 28 is a sectional view 'of the fastener of Figs. 26 and 27 showing the locking action of the legs and teeth thereon as applied to a round aperture in work.

Fig. 29 shows a series of another form of blank wherein the legs may be folded onto each other to provide the desired form of shank.

Fig. 30 is a front elevation of'a fastening de-" vice which may be formed from the blank of Fig. 29

Fig. 31 is a side elevation of Fig. 30.

Fig. 32 is a top plan view of the fastening device of Figs. 30 and 31 as applied to a rectangular aperture in work.

Fig. 33 is a top plan view of" the fastener of Figs. 30 and 31 as applied to a round aperture in work.

Flg.. 34 represents a series of another form of blank in which the legs may be folded onto each other to provide the desired form of shank.

Fig. 35 is a front elevation of a fastening device which may be formed from the blank of Fig. 34.

Fig. 36 is a side elevation of Fig. 35.

Fig. 37 is a top plan view of the device of Figs. 35 and 36 as applied to around aperture in work.

Figs. 38-43 inclusive, represent various forms of double ended shank structures for fastening apertured members in superposed relation, Fig.

38 being a front elevation of one form of such double-ended fastening means.

Fig. 39 is a side elevation of the device of Hg.

38 shown applied in fastening 901M9 in superposed members having aligned apertures.

Fig. 40 is a front elevation of Fig. 39.

Fig. 41 is a side elevation of a form of doubleended fastening means for securing superposed members, the apertures of which are out of line.

P18. 42 is a front elevation of. a modified form of double-ended fastening means. one end of which is provided with locking means and the opposite end having cam surfaces permitting withdrawal of such end.

Fig. 43 is a side elevation of Fig. 42. g Figs. 44-52 inclusive, disclose various forms 0 tooth structures which may be employed on any of the shank arrangements disclosed, Fig. 44 rep- 5 resenting a tooth structure in which, the teeth are uniform in size and are formed on or struck out of stock of constant width.

Fig. 45 shows a tooth structure in which the teeth progressively decrease in size toward the free ends, and are struck out of stock of constant width.

Fig. 45a shows a tooth structure in which the legs are of constant width and teeth of progressively decreasing size toward the free ends are formed thereon.

Fig. 46 shows teeth progressively increasing in size toward the free ends and struck out of shank legs of' constant width.

Fig. 46a represents a tooth structure wherein the legs are of constant width and teeth of progressively increasing size toward the free ends are formed thereon.

Fig. 4'7 shows teeth of uniform size disposed on shank legs increasing in width. toward the free en'ds.

Fig. 48 represents teeth of progressively decreasing size disposed -on shank legs increasing in width toward the free ends.

Fig. 49 shows teeth of progressively increasing size disposed on shank legs increasing'in width,

toward the free ends thereof.

Fig. 50 discloses a shank structure in which teeth of uniform size are disposed on shank legs 7 Fig. 52 shows teeth of progressively increasing size disposed on shank legs decreasing in width toward the free ends.

Fig. 53 shows in front elevation a form of tooth structure in which the teeth are relatively staggered on the respective legs to conform to the contour of the threads of an internally threaded member.

Fig. 53a is a side elevation of Fig. 53.

Fig. 54 shows the device of Figs. 53 and 53a seated in an internally threaded member shown in section.

Fig.- 54a is a sectional view of Fig. 54 taken along line 54a-54a.

Fig. 55 is a front elevation of a form of device in which the teeth on the legs are provided by recesses which insure a positivelocking action in ing in front elevation a fastener in whichthe free ends are formed to seat in a channel shape.

Fig. 58 is a side elevation of the fastener of Fig. 57 shown with the free ends formed to seat in a channel shape and secured to a supporting means.

Fig. 59 is front elevation of Fig. 58 with the channel shape in section.

Fig. 60 discloses in side elevation a fastener in which the free ends are formed to engage a. pair of ribs or the like on a member to be secured to a supporting means.

Fig. 61 shows the fastener of Fig. 60 with the free ends of the legs designed to engage outwardly extending ribs on the underside of a form of channel shape.

Fig. 62 shows in front elevation another form of the fastening device in which the free ends engage the inwardly extending ribs or projections on an object to be secured.

Fig. 65 shows in perspective the fastener of Fig. 64 with the free ends engaging inwardly extending ribs of a channel shape.

Fig. 66 shows in front elevation the fastener of Fig. 64 with the free ends engaging inwardly extending'ribs on a round finishing object shown partly in section.

Fig. 66a is bottom plan view of Fig. 66.

Fig. 6'7 shows a further application of any of the shank structuresshown wherein the free ends are deformed to extend in the same directions to provide a head adapted to engage a panel section.

Fig. 68 is a front elevaton of the fastener shown in Fig. 67.

Fig. 71 shows in side elevation a fastening device in which the free ends are designed to form a cradle for an object to be supported.

Fig. '72 shows in side elevation another form of device in which the free end of one leg rests upon a supporting surface and the other end is designed to engage and support an object against the adjacent surface.

Fig. 73 is a similar view of a similar device for supporting a. plurality of objects.

Fig. '74 is a front elevation, Fig. 75 is a side elevation and Fig. 75a. is a top plan view of a modification in which the free ends of the fastener are designed to engage an object and subsequently be deformed to lock the object in desired position.

Fig. 76 is a front elevation of a form of fastening device in which one of the free ends is designed to rest upon a supporting surface and the other free end is bent back upon itself to form a supporting means for an object.

Fig. 77 is a sideelevation of Fig. 76.

or recess in a post, tube or thelike.

Figs. 80-86, inclusive, show various forms of ing protuberances adapted to seat in a'depression Fig. we is a similar view of a similardevice for Y supporting a plurality of .obiects. Fig. 79 is a side elevation. of a fastening device the free ends of which are formed into arms havfastening means in which the shank'depe'nds from an integral head member and in which the shank legs are of unequal length. Fig. 80 representing a blank outline from which the device maybe constructed.

Fig. 80a is a side elevational view' of a form of the fastening means constructed from the blank constructed from the blank of Fig. 80," with the shank legs lying adjacent each other.

Fig. 82 is a front elevation of the forms of shank structure shown in Fig. 80a. or Fig. 81a.

Fig. 83 shows the device of Fig. 82 applied in locked fastening position in work.

Fig. 84 is side elevation of Fig. 83.

Fig. 84a shows applied to work, a modification in which the shoulder is in the form of a cam surface permitting the device to be withdrawn.

Fig. 85 is a bottom view in perspective of Fig. 84.

Fig. 86 represents a modification in which the locking action is provided by shoulders formed on the longitudinal edges of the shank legs.

Figs. 87-99 inclusive, disclose various forms of devices in which there are more than two shank legs, Fig. 87 representing a blank outline from which certain of such forms of devices may be constructed.

Fig. 88 is a side elevation of a form of fastening device, provided with yieldable head sections, constructed from the blank of Fig. 87.

Fig. 89 is a front elevation of the fastener of Fig. 88 shown applied to work.

Fig. 90 represents an outline of an alternate form of blank.

Fig. 91 is a side elevation of a form of device constructed from the blank shown in Fig. 90.

Fig. 92 represents an outline of an alternate form of blank.

Fig. 93 is. a side elevational view of a device constructed from the blank of Fig. 92 showing a modified shank structure.

Fig. 94 shows, applied to work, a front elevation of a device having the shank structure of either Fig. 91 or Fig. 93.

Fig. 95 is a front elevation of a modified shank structure wherein recesses along the longitudinal edges of the shank legs provide a plurality of shoulders.

Fig. 96 is a side elevation of Fig. 95. Fig. 9'7 shows the device of Figs. 95 and 969.1)-

plied to locked fastening position in work.

Fig. 98 is a front elevation of a modification in which the ends of the legs, acting as the locking shoulders, are disposed closely adjacent the head,

device are shown as construe wire and the like. A number of forms of the strip stock while other types are shown as formed from blanks of a certain outline stamped from sheet stock material.

Figs. i-o, inclusive. show a form of device constructed from strip stock. The device consists of a shank which is formed by bending back upon itself a suitable length of strip to provide a pair of leg elements -I, I lying in separate; distinct planes adjacent each other as shown in Fig. 2. This strip is bent back upon itself in a fold 3 extending at an acute angle to the longitudinal edge of the strip as shownin Fig. 3. bending the strip to thus dispose the fold at an an'gle, the leg elements must naturally lie offset with respect to each other in normal, untensioned position as shown in Fig. 1. Since the degree of offset of the legs is determined by theangle of the fold the disposition of the legs relative to each other in normal position may assume a laterally offset relation or otherform of offset relation; this offset relation of the legs may be so designed as to be most effective in an aperture of predetermined size in any desired location or installation. on being applied to an aperture in'work of smaller width or diameter than the distance between the outer longitudinal edges of the legs in their normal. untensioned, ia terally onset relation, the legs are caused to move from their normal oifset'relation shown in Fig. 1 to a position slightly offset or approaching aii'gnmentas' shown in Fig; 3. Such a movement ofthel-legs away from their normal, unten's ioned,- laterally onset relation is designed to setup an extraordinary tension in the legs, which tension is'exerted against the adjacent walls of the aperture. In many instances the tension thus exerted is sufficient to maintain the device rigidly in fastens ing position in the work due to the unusual ;fri c-. tional engagement thus obtained against the side walls of the aperture. "Where such frictional engagement alone is suflicient to maintainthe fastener in its applied position, the device may be utilized as 'a' separable fasteningmeans and be withdrawn and removed as desired without in any way mutilating or otherwise injuring the same.

On removing the fastener from the aperture the legs naturally tend to assume their normaluntensioned oifset relation shown in Fig. i, such that the. fastener may again be employed in the installation from which it was removed, much in the manner of a push or snap-stud. For example,-

in the installation of a panel structure in the door frame of an automobile, very often it is necessary" that the panel be re'movedto replace the window or repair its operating parts. In' such instances a fastener of the type above described which is held in place by a frictional contact ofthelegs'against the aperture side-walls, and which is therefore readily applied and easily removed without injurin'g thesame, is highly efficient. In many other instances, however, it is necessary or desirable that the fastening'de'vice be not readily removed-or easily withdrawn from its non ordinary- As shown in Figs. 3, 4, and 5, when a device provided with teeth 4. I is applied into an aperture in work W, said teeth engage the aperture side walls and the adjacent underface of the work, to lock the device in position. As shown in Fig. 4 when the device is used in a rectangular aperture A, the width of the aperture need be only slightly wider than the combined thickness of legs I, 2 whereas the length of theaperture need be only slightly longer than the overall width of the legs at the fold 3, Fig. 3 to permit insertion of the device and to obtain a most effective engagement of the legs against the side walls of the aperture. of course, the aperture may be made slightly larger whereupon thev device may be more easily inserted inthatless flexing is required and less tension is set up in the legs as the device is applied to its fastening position. As shown in Fig. 5-the device is readily adapted for use in a round aperture B in work W. In such instances the diameter of the aperture need be only slightly greater than the width of the legs at the fold 3 to permit insertion of the device and to obtain a 'lie against'the upper face of the work W, Fig. 3 or: against the adjacent face of an object or part secured.

Figs. 6-10. inclusive, show a fastening device similar in operationto that of Figs. 1-5, inclusive.

It may be formed of strip stock which is bent back upon itself to define a pair of legs i, 2 disposed in spaced planes as shown in Fig. 7. The stock is: preferably bent on a fold Ia which extends at an angle, to the longitudinal edge of the strip such that'the legs are offset relative to each other as shown in perspective in Fig. 6. This form of device is advantageous in that the legs, being disposed in spaced planes, more readily flex and thus .permit a quick easy insertion of the device due to the fact that the locking means such as teeth 4. I on the legs may thus more'easily pass the aperture side walls to the point at which the device is in looking position.

In certain applications, it is necessary or desir-" able that a fastening means be employed which is strong and durable and provides an effective locking action in fastening position, yet may'ipe withdrawn if desired without mutilating or other-.

wise. injuring thesame' In such applications a fastening means of the general type disclosed in Figs. iii-l5. inclusive, maybe employed. The device of this form may be constructed either -i'if strip or blank stock and is so designed as to provide cam surfaces on the outer longitudinal edges of the legs. The device may beformed by bending the stock upon itself in a fold is extending at an acute angle to the longitudinal edge of the stock such that spaced, offset legs II, II, are

provided each having on its outer longitudinal edge a cammiiig surface l4, It. The operation of the legs in this form of the device is similar to that described in connection, with Figs. 1-10 inclusiv. As the device is applied into. an aperture in work, Fig. 14, the leading edges ii, ll of the cam surfaces I, ll act as guiding means serving to force-the offset legs toward each other to a position of sufiicient alignment whereby those portions of the shank legs having the cam surfaces l4, l may pass through the aperture whereupon the legs may move laterally toward their normal, offset relation such that the rounded shoulders l8, l9 engage the lower edges of the aperture to lock the device in position under the extraordinary tension exerted by the legs attempting to assume their normal ofiset relation. Since the shoulders l8, l9 are, in effect, cam surfaces, the device may be readily-withdrawn by axial force exerted on the head sections 6, to cause said shoulders I8, I9 to cam the legs into suflicient alignment to allow those portions of the legs carrying the cams |4, |5 to pass through and be removed from the aperture. The device may also be removedby causing the laterally offset head sections 6, I to move to a position of substantial alignment whereupon the legs will be in sufiicient alignment to permit the shank of the Certain other types of work require a fastening means which is easily and quickly applied. to a locking position and which can not move out of such locking position because of strain, vibration, jarring etc. In such instances, a form of fastening device such as shown in Figs. 16-21, inclusive, may be employed effectively because of its positive locking action in fastening position. The positive'locking action is effected through the use of sharp shoulders 24, 25 provided by slots, cut-outs, or recesses 26, 21 in the outer longitudinal edges of the offset legs 2 l, 22. Asshown in Fig. 18 the recesses 26, 21 may be provided 'adjacent the head sections such that the shoulders snugly engage the aperture side walls and adjacent lower face of the work with the head sections flushagainst the upper face of the work or part secured. As shown in Fig. 21 the recesses may be of material depth to present the shoulders 24, 25 pronounced and well defined, such that they engage a substantial area of the work adjacent is adapted for use in various thicknesses of work.

Although the shoulders 24, 25 are shown as sharp and'well defined to' afford a positive locking of the device in fastening position it is obvious and fully intended as within the scope of this invention that the shoulders be suitably formed to present blunt cam surfaces which, upon an axial force being exerted on the head sections, are

caused to cam against the adjacent lower edge of the aperture and thus cause a relative contraction of the shank legs in order that the device may be withdrawn from its fastening position.

In some installations, relatively thick work is encountered as, for example, in the floor board of an automobile where it is desired to securely fasten a layer of sound deadening material, M, and a layer of fibre board F, against a metal support S as shown in Figs. '23 and 24. In such instances, the overall thickness of the work requires a-relatively long shank. A form of device which may be employed in such applications is represented in Figs. 23 and 24 in which elongated leg members 3|, 32 forming the shank are disposed in oifsetrelation. Adjacent the leading end of the device, recesses or cutouts are provided to present well defined, pronounced locking shoulders 34, 35 adapted -to engage and lock ing of cold air and fumes from the motor through the space between the legs.

Figs. 25-28 inclusive, show a form of the device which may be constructed from blanks stamped from sheet material. A blank of the general configuration shown in Fig. 25 is stamped to provide a pair of legs 4|, 42 integral at 40. A recess 43 and a slot 44 on either side of the area in which the legs are integral, weakens the metal such that it may be sufliciently distorted to allow the legs to be lapped one upon the other as shown in Fig. 26. Along the inner longitudinal edges of the legs 4|, 42 are formed series of teeth 45, 46. The teeth may each be formed such that the upper edge thereof is slightly upwardly inclined as shown in Fig. prior to deformation of the blank. When the blank of Fig. 25 is deformed as shown in Figs. 26 and 27, the inner longitudinal edges of the legs then become the outer longitudinal edges of the effective portion of the shank of the fastener. The teeth on such edges are thus disposed in position to engage the side walls of an aperture in work as shown in Fig. 28. Since the upper edge of each tooth is slightly upwardly inclined in the stamping of the blank as shown in Fig. 25, such upper edge of each tooth is disposed on a substantial horizontal when the legs are bent to the desired form shown in Fig. 26,

whereby the most efiective locking engagement of I the teeth with the work is obtained. As shown in Fig. 28 this form of the device is adapted for use in a round aperture B in work W, although it is obvious that it may be readily employed in apertures of any other configuration. In application and use this form of the device functions substantially similar to that described above in connection with Figs. 1-10 inclusive.

Figs. 29-33 inclusive, show another form of the device which may .be constructed from a stamped blank. As shown in Fig. 29 the desired blanks may be stamped from relatively wide strip stock. Each blank is so stamped as to provide a. pair of legs 5|, 52 each of which may carry a head section 6, I. The legs are integral as at 50 and are designed to be folded one upon the other substantially along fold line 53 as shown in Fig. 30. In the stamping of the blank, series of teeth are disposed on both the inner and outer longitudinal edges of the legs; however, only one seriesof teeth on the inner, and one series on the outer longitudinal edges of the legs are effective in the use of the fastener when the legs are folded to the desired relation shown in Fig. 30. A simple, cheap, and expedient method for providing the effective teeth on each leg is accomplished by stamping the effective teeth 55 of the inner longitudinal edge of the legs 52 and thus partially sever the blanks, Fig. 29, such as to provide the, respective legs 5|, 52. The efiective teeth 54 on the outer longitudinal edges of legs 5| may be stamped and formed by a suitable tool-which also severs' the completed blank from the next succeeding blank. As shown in Figs. 32 and33 the device of this form is readily adapted for use in a round or rectangular aperture in work, with the teeth 55 on leg 5| and teeth 54 on leg 52 being designed to engage the adjacent wall of the opening into which the device is inserted. In application and use, devices of this form 'are similar to those described in connection with Figs. 1-10,

inclusive.

Figs. 34-37 inclusive, show another form of device which may be constructed from a stamped blank. The stamped blanks are preferably severed from relatively wide strip stock in a substantially V-shape such as to' provide legs 6!, 62 which may carry head sections 0, I. The blank is designed to be folded along line 63 as shown in Fig. 35. In the blanking and severing operation suggested in Fig. 34, teeth will be formed on each of the longitudinal edges of the legs BI, 62; however, only the series of teeth designated 64, 65 are effective when the blank is folded into the desired form of shank, as shown in Fig. 35. In application and use, the function of this form of the device is similar to that described in connection with Figs. 1-10, inclusive.

Figs. 38-40, inclusive, show a double-ended form of fastening means in which may be utilized any of the specific shank structures herein disclosed. The oppositely disposed shanks are composed of relatively yieldable legs I I, I2 and I3, I4. Legs I2 and I4 are integral at I5- while the free ends of the respective legs may be suitably bent to provide bearing sections I6, 11, Fig 39. Teethv may be provided on the outer longitudinal edges of the legs to obtain a locking action of the respective shanks in applied fastening position. As shown in Figs. 39 and 40 this form of device is especially adapted for use in securing superposed members such as W, W' Fig. 40, the apertures of which are in substantial alignment. In application of the device one shank is applied to the aperture in a member W, until the bearing sections I0, 'II rest against the upper face of such member, whereupon the other member W, is applied and forced onto the opposite shank until it'lies flush against the said bearing sections in desired fastening position.

Fig. 41 shows a modified arrangement of the shanks of this type device for securing superposed members the apertures of which are out of line. The device is composed of oppositely disposed, oifset shanks consisting of legs Ila, 12a and 13a, Ila, the legs 12a, 13a being integral at 15a. The free ends of the respective legs may be suitably bent to provide bearing sections 16a, Ila.

Figs. 42 and 43 show a form of double ended fastening means in which one or both shanks may be provided with cam surfaces such that a shank so provided is effectively locked in applied position yet may be readily withdrawn if desired,similar to the shank structure described in connection with Figs. 11 to 15 inclusive. As shown in Fig. 42 the lower shank of this form of double-ended fastener is composed of legs I I 5. 12b havingcam surfaces, I8, I9 the upper shank being composed of relatively yieldable legs 13b, 14b, having teeth to lock the shank in applied position. The legs 12b, 145 are integral at 15b while legs 'Ilb, 13b are folded in the same direction to lie in a. substantially common plane as shown in Fig. 43 with the free ends 16b, 11b extending in the samegeneral direction. The free ends 16b, 11b are interconnected in any expedient manner,-such as by welding, riveting, lapping or otherwise uniting one free end with the other to prevent relative axial movement of the opposite shanks away from each other. As shown in Fig. 43 a simple means for imlting the free ends is effected by lapp n end IIb onto the shorter free end 16b.

Figs. 44-52 inclusive, disclose various arrangements and methods of providing teeth on the legs and with reference to the stock width of the legs. In certain applications it is necessary or desirable that some teeth be larger and stronger than others, as for example, in an installation in thin work where even though fine teeth are designed as the actual holding means, coarser teeth are also provided such that inthe event the fine teeth should fail, the coarser teeth would then be effective to retain the device in locked position in the work.

In other applications, stronger, coarser teeth are desirable at the point of greatest flexing of the legs for most effective locking action, the fine teeth permitting the device to be easily inserted.

.The various forms of tooth formations may be employed on devices formed either of strip stock or of stamped blanks. As shown in Fig. 44 the shank legs 8|, 82 may be of constant width throughout their lengths with teeth 03, 84 of uniform size struck out of or formed along the longitudinal edges thereof. Fig. 45 discloses a shank structure in which the legs Bla, 8211 are of constant overall width throughout their lengths and teeth 83a, 84a, of progressively decreasing size toward the free ends of the legs, are cut out of the longitudinal edges thereof. In Fig. 45a the teeth 8 lb, 82b are of a similar formation but are formed onto legs 83b, 84b which may be said to have a constant root width C throughout their lengths. Teeth of progressively increasing size toward the free ends of the legs may be formed as shown in Fig. 46 in which the shank legs Me, 820 are of constant overall width throughout their lengths and teeth 83c, 840 of progressively increasing size are cut out of the longitudinal edges thereof. Fig. 46a shows a. similar tooth formation, 83d, 84d formed onto legs 8ld, 82:! having what may be termed a constant root width C throughout their lengths.

Figs. 47-49 inclusive, represent various tooth formations formed on shank legs increasing in width toward the free ends. In Fig. 47 shank legs 85, 86 of increasing width toward the free ends are provided with teeth.8'I, 88 of uniform size disposed along the longitudinal edges thereof. In Fig. 48 the legs 85a, 86a are provided with teeth 81a, 88a progressively decreasing in size toward the free ends and in Fig. 49 the legs 85b, 86b are provided with teeth 81b, 88b progressively increasing in size on legs which are of increasing width toward the free ends.

Figs. 50-52 illustrate various tooth formations on legs decreasing in width toward the free ends thereof. In Fig; 50 legs 80, 00 are provided with teeth 9|, 92 of uniform size; in Fig. 51 legs 89a, 90a are provided with teeth 9Ia, 92a progressively decreasing in size toward the free ends of the legs. In Fig. 52 the legs 80b, 90b, decreasing in width, have disposed along their longitudinal edges teeth 9Ib, 92b increasing in size toward the free ends thereof. w e v Figs. 53-5411 inclusive, show a toothand head formation for use in applications where itis desired that the fastening device be locked yet quicklyand easily removable. As shown in Fig. 53, legs IOI-l02 may be provided with spaced teeth I03-I0l which are disposed in staggered formation with respect to each other such that they may follow the contour of an internally threaded structure as shown in Fig. 54. This form of device may be applied by an axial push such that the yieldable legs contract sumciently to allow the teeth I03, I04 to become seated in the threads. Head sections I08, I01 may be provided contraction is facilitated by the use of wings I08I09 on the heads IDS-I01 which wings are twisted to lie in substantially parallel planes such that they may be squeezed by the fingers ormoved toward each other by a suitable tool until the teeth on the legs lie clear of the threads whereupon the device may be withdrawn. Devices of the general type shown in Fig. 53 may be put to many uses where an easily and quickly applied and readily removed temporary fastening means is desired, due to the fact that the device may be applied by a. simple axial push and removed by moving the head sections toward alignment until the legs are contracted sufficiently to allow the teeth thereon to clear the side walls of the aperture in which the device is mounted such that it may be withdrawn therefrom.

Figs. 55-560. illustrate a tooth structure designed to effect a positive lock of the shank legs in fastening position. The shank legs are offset relative to each other and on being applied into an aperture in'work function and operate in a manner similar to that described above in connection with Figs. 1-10 inclusive. As shown in Fig. 55 the teeth of this form of device are designed to be very pronounced such that the work may be engaged in recesses between'adjacent teeth on each leg. Preferably the teeth are formed by striking spaced, substantially rectangular recesses or cut-outs II3, I I4 along the outer I driven home as shown in Fig. 56a. However, in

order to adapt the device for use in various thicknesses of work, as for example, several layers of sheet material, it is desirable that a 'plurality of shoulders be provided on the legs'as shown in Fig. 55, such that any opposite pair of shoulders is positioned for any desired work thickness.

Fig. 56 shows a tooth structure wherein relatively wide shoulders are provided in order to afford a positive look, as in the form of device shown in Fig. 55. The leading edge of each tooth in this form of device is inclined as shown at II5-I I6 to insure easy application of the device to fastening position much in the manner of a snap stud, the inclined edges functioning as guide means to readily pass the teeth past-the edges of the aperture.

Figs. 57-79 inclusive, illustrate various uses and methods of application of the shank structures herein disclosed. In every form of shank structure it is to be noted that the fastening of the device is accomplished through the action of. the relatively yieldable leg members and tooth elements thereon contacting and engaging in certain ways the side walls of the aperture and adjacent work surfaces. It is to be understood that it is fully intended as within the scope of this invention that the free ends of the legs of any of the shank structures or the-free ends of any head sections shown or described may be bent, distorted, or suitably deformed to provide any of the head structures herein disclosed and for the purposes set forth. Likewise it is intended as within the scope of this-invention that any of the head structures herein illustrated may also be used and adapted for use as desired or expedient,

on any form of shank structure herein disclosed, described or similar thereto. As shownin Figs. 57-59, inclusive, the free ends I28, I21 of the shank legs I2 I, I22 may be bent in opposite directions and suitably deformed substantially to the contour of a channel-shape C, such as a molding or other finishing object. In use the fastening devicesmay be assembled, by any suitable aligning means, in exact position in the channel shape whereupon the assembly as a unit may be applied to desired location on a pro-perforated supporting surface. The head sections I26, I21 of the fastening devices are so designed as to snugly seat within the-channel shape and have portions thereof contacting the inner face of the roof thereof such that the shank leg members I2 I, I22 are readily driven home and seated in locked fastening position as shown in Fig. 59. This may be accomplished by a simple, expedient axial push or hammer blow on the outer face of the said channel shape, it being preferable to employ a rubber hammer to avoid possible injury to the finish of the object supported. 1

As shown in Figs. 60 and 61 the free ends of the shanks may also be bent, distorted, or deformed to receive outwardly extending ribs 03, C4 or the like, provided on a relatively wide finishing object 0' such as a molding or trim strip. The trim strip C shown in Fig. 6lis economically manufactured and also has a wide, varied use because of its unique appearance on a supporting surface, and also in that coloring, colored plastics and the like may be applied in the groove C2 for unusual eflects. The fastening device for securing such type of object may comprise a shank consisting of leg elements I2I, .I22 the free ends of which are bent into complementary head sections I26a, I2'Ia which are provided with flanges I28, I29 adapted to engage and seat between them the outwardly extending ribs C3, C4 of the trim strip Cf as shown in Fig. 61.

Figs. 62 and 63 show another form of head structure for securing the trim strip shown in Fig. 61. The freeends of the shank legs I2I, I22 .are'bent into flanged head sections I28a, I29a.

gaging the'ribs and under tension of the legs attempting to assume their normal offset relation.

Figs. 64 and 65 show a head structure especially adapted forengagement with a trim strip C5 having'inturned ribs C6, C1, Fig. 65. The shank legs I2I, I22 are provided with relatively short head sections I36, I31 designed .to seat between the upper face of the ribs C6, C1, and the adjacent under surface of the trim strip. As shown Figs. 67 and 68 show a form of head structure particularly adapted for use in a panel or like installation. The free ends I40, l4] of the shank legs I2I, I22 are bent in a common plane in the same general direction to form a substantially U-shaped'clip I42 adapted to hook onto a layer of a panel or the like by extending through a slot in such layer as shown. in Fig. 67.

Figs. 69-78 inclusive, show various forms of' head structures designed to support or clamp a cable, tube, line, wire, rope or the like in any desired position on or relative to a supporting surface. In Fig. 69 the free ends of the legs are designed to support and clamp an object having a round cross-section such as for example a tube T. Preferably the ends are flared at their extremities to facilitate application of the .tube or object to the supporting sections of the fastening device and are also disposed inwardly to provide shoulders I53, I54 adapted .to prevent the tube or object moving out of its applied position. As shown in Fig. '70 the free ends of the head sections may be extended to accommodate a plurality of objects such as a tube T and a wire R.

Fig. 71 shows a head structure formed from the free ends. of the legs I2I, I22--such that a cradle mountingis provided for supporting an object in applied position. In certain applications where much jarring and vibration takes place, the supporting sections of the head have a tendency to rub the object supported and thus damage the same. In providing a cradle mounting, such objection is necessarily removed since the object supported may move with the jarring and vibrations, yet be firmly held by the gripping elements in its original applied position. The cradle mounting of Fig. '7lis composed of arcuate sections I56, I51 at the free ends of legs I2I, I22. The said arcuate sections I56, I51 include, in the form of spaced arcuate return bends, sections I58,.

I59, which together form a cradle for supporting an object such as a tube T.

Fig. 72 discloses a head structure wherein the free end of one of the legs is suitably formed to provide an arm IN to engage and support an object against the'adjacent supporting surface. The free end of the other legmay be formed into a shoulder I62 to seat against the supporting'surface and steady the device in its applied fastenin: position. As shown in. Fig. 73 the arm m may be provided with an additional sectionj-or sections, I03, such that the fastening device is adapted for supporting a plurality of. objects.

Figs. 74 and 75 show a head structure wherein the supporting elements I04I85 have, initially, a substantially upright position such that an object 'inay be applied thereto, whereupon the free ends of the supporting elements may be deformed to lock the object in its applied position as shown in. dotted lines in-Figs. 75 and 75a and in full lines in Fig. '74.

Figs. 76-78 inclusive, show a head structure provided by suitably deforming the free end of one of the legs back upon itself to provide relatively yieldable sections adapted to engage and support between them an object '1' as in Fig. '17

or a plurality of objects asin Fig. '78.

Fig. 79'discloses a form of head structure adapted to receive and support a tube, post or the like in substantial axial alignment with the shank. Head sections I] I, I12 formed on the free ends of legs I2I, I22 are provided with projecting lug elements or protuberances I13, "4 adapted to seat in a cooperating recess, depression, or groove in a hollow post H, tube or the like and retain the same in applied position.

Figs. 80-100, inclusive, disclose various forms of fastening devices in which the'shanks are composed of offset, relatively yieldable legs having a function similar to that in the forms of devices hereinbefore described, but distinguished therefrom in that, the shank structures depend from integral head sections defining the head member of the device.

Figs. 80-86 inclusive, show a form of fasmning means in which the shank comprises a pair of offset, relatively yieldable legs depending integrally from a head member, one of said legs being of less length than the other. The device may be constructed from strip stock such as represented in Fig. 80. From withinithe longitudinal edges of the strip is stamped a head'section-20I which together with the adjacent end portion 202 of the strip formthe head sections of. the device ,as shown in Fig. 80a. The remaining lengthof the strip is bent away from the said head sections 20I, 202m the form of a return fold or bend 205 to provide legs 203, 204 which may be spaced as in Fig. 80a or, adjacent each other as in Fig. 810. A similar form of shank 'structure'may be formed from a blank such as shown in Fig. 81 in which case the strip portion 203' depends from the center area of the head intermediate the head sections 2, 2I2. As shown in Fig. 80a, the head sections in any of these forms may be disposed downwardly toward the shank to serve as a yieldable take-up means such that there is no axial play of the device in fastening position; such result is obtained due to the axial pull exerted by the said yieldable head sections on the shank whereby the engaging shoulder is drawn to firm, snug engagement with the adjacent underface of the work, Also by so utilizing the head-sections as a take-up means the device may be employed, within limits, in various thicknesses of work. As shown in Fig. 82 the return bend or fold 205 is disposed at an angle to the longitudinal edges 'of the strip such that the legs 203, 204 are relatively yieldable and the shorter leg 204 is laterally offset relative to the longer leg such that the 'free end thereof provides a sharp pronounced shoulder 206 which efiects a positive locking of the device in fastening positionas shown in Figs.

83, 84,. and 85. This form of device may be designed for use in various thicknesses of work by providing on the longitudinal edges of the legs, spaced recesses 201, 200 Fig. 86, .which present series of sharp, pronounced, shoulders or teeth, any opposite pair of which may engage the 'lower edge surface of the work such as a metal sheet, M, to positively lock the device in. its applied position, thus securing any desired thickness of work or layers of'work such as fibre board F, F, or .the like. As shown in Fig. 84c'this form of device may be readily adapted for use 'as a separable fastening 'means analogous to a snap stud, by providing a blunt shoulder or cam plied to the head sections 2! I, 212, cams against the lower adjacent edgeof the work aperture to thereby cause a relative contraction-of the legs sufficient to pass the shank and permit the device to be withdrawn. 3

Figs. 87-100 inclusive, show various forms of fastening means wherein the shank structures have more .thantwo legs. These forms may be constructed from various blank outlines such=. as, for example, shown in Figs. 87, 90, and 92. In Fig. 87 the head sections 22l, 222 are struck from the strip stock to extend laterally and thus form the head of the device as shown in Fig. 88. The remaining portions of the strip are bent downwardly from said head sections, as shown in 88, to provides. shank composed of pairs of legs 223, 225 and 224, 226. It is preferable, though not essential, that in any of the forms of devices 'the device.

sections, that the sections be downwardly bent toward the shank as 22l, 222, Fig. 88, such that they are-yieldable relative to the shank; the device is thus adapted for use in various thicknesses of work and also is seated snugly in locked fastenihg position due to the axial pull of said head sections on the shank. As shown in Fig. 89 the main legs 223, 224 are in the form of return bends 219, 226 providing shorter locking legs 225, 226. The return bend or fold 2l9, 220 on each leg is disposed at an angle tothe longitudinal edge of its respective main leg such that the shorter leg is laterally offset relative thereto. The ends of the shorter legs thus present oppositely disposed shoulders 221, 228 adapted for locking engagement in Work as shown in Fig. 89. Of course, the bend or fold M9, 220 of the respective shank elements or main legs 223, 224, may both be disposed at angles extending in substantially the same direction, whereupon the locking shoulders provided by the short legs 225, 226 are not oppositely disposed as in Fig. 89, but rather, extend both in the same direction to engage an edge of the work aperture and the adjacent work surface at substantially adjacent points, with the opposite longitudinal edges of the main legs 223, 224 contacting the opposite side wall of the aperture. A form of shank structure similar to Fig. 89 may be provided fromthe blank of Fig. 90 in which the sections 23l, 232 together serve as the head of the device and the shank is composed of legs formed from the material on either side thereof as shown in Fig. 91.

4 From the blank outline represented in Fig. 92, a device of the general character shown in Fig. 93 may be formed. The head is composed of sections 2, 242 disposed on either side of the shank portions 243, 244 which form the main legs of The main legs are deformed into return bends to provide offset relatively yieldable, ldcking legs 245, 246 as shown in Fig. 94. This form of shank structure may be modified to adapt the device for use in various thicknesses of material. As shown in Figs. 95-97, inclusive, the outer longitudinal edges of the shorter legs 245, 246 may be provided with deep-cut recesses presenting series of shoulders or teeth 249, 250, any opposite pair of which is designed to positively lock the device in fastening position in a certain thickness of work. As shown in Fig. 9'7 the upper recesses are so disposed as to engage the edges of an aperture in the'metal work M to secure a certain thickness fibre. board F or the like in positive locked position. A thicker fibre board or several layers thereof could be secured by the same device by utilizing the shoulders provided by the lower recesses. 1

For relatively thin work the shorter legs 246, 246 may extend closer to the head of the device such that the locking shoulders 241a, 2480, Figs. 98 and 99 are only slightly spaced therefrom.

In certain types of work, as for example, in a panel installation in a door frame it is necessary or desirable that the device be capable of being withdrawn. In such instances the shorter legs 245a, 246a, Fig. 100, may be provided with cam surfaces 25l, 252 which serve to maintain the device in position under tension of the laterally offset, relatively yieldable legs; upon axial force being exerted on the head sections 2, 242, the cam surfaces cam against the adjacent edge of the work aperture and cause a relative contraction of the shorter legs with respect to the longer legs such that the shank may pass through th aperture and the device be withdrawn.

Changes and modifications may be made in the arrangement and construction of the devices herein disclosed and it is therefore desired that it be understood that the scope of the invention be determined by the appended claims rather than the foregoing description.

What is claimed is:

1. A fastening device comprising a head, a shank, said shank comprising leg members integrally united to form a leading end for the device, said leg members extending in diverging relation toward said head and being laterally offset with respect to each other in normal, untensioned relation.

2. A fastening device comprising a head, a shank, said shank comprising leg members integrally united to form a leading end for the device, said leg members extending in diverging relation toward said head and being laterally offset with respect to each other in normal, untensioned relation such that certain of the longitudinal edges of said leg members extend in converging relation toward said leading end of the device, whereby a gradual, relative, lateral contraction of said leg members is eflected as the device is advanced in an aperture in work to move the said leg members from their normal, untensioned, laterally offset relation to tensioned relation in fastening position.

3. A fastening device comprising a head, a shank, said shank comprising leg members integrally united to form a leading end for the device, said leg members extending in converging relation toward the leading end of the device and being laterally offset with respect to each other in normal, untensioned relation.

4. A fastening device comprising a head, .a shank, said shank comprising leg members integrally united to form a leading end for the device, said leg members being laterally oifset and extending in converging relation toward the leading end to dispose certain of the longitudinal edges of the leg members in diverging relation toward said head, whereby a gradual, relative contraction of said leg members is effected as the device is advanced in an aperture in work to move the said leg members from their normal, untensioned, laterally offset relation to tensioned relation in fastening position.

5. A fastening device comprising a head, a shank, said shank comprising leg members integrally united to form a leading end for the device, said leg members being disposed laterally at an angle to each other and extending in diverging relation toward the head in normal, untensioned relation.

6. A fastening device comprising a head, a shank, said shank comprising leg members in-- tegrally united to form a leading end for the device, said leg members extending in diverging relation toward the head and being disposed at an angle laterally with respect to each other to dispose certain ,of the longitudinal edges of the leg members in converging relation toward the leading end of the device in normal, untensioned, relation, whereby a gradual, relative, lateral contraction of said leg members is effected as the device is advanced in an aperture in work to seat the device under tension in fastening position.

7. A fastening device comprising a head, a shank, said shank comprising leg members integrally united to form a leading end for the de vice, said leg members extending in diverging relation toward the head and being laterally offset with respect to each other, and means provided on said leg members adapted to engage in a work aperture to resist withdrawal of the device from applied fastening position.

8. A fastening device comprising a head, a shank, said shank comprising leg members integrally united to form a leading end for the device, said leg members extending in converging relation toward the leading end and being laterally oilset with respect to each other, and means provided on said leg members adapted to engage in a work aperture under tension to seat the device and resist movement thereof from applied fastening position.

9. A fastening device comprising a head, a

.shank, said shank comprising leg members integrally united to form a leading end for the device, said leg members extending in converging relation toward the leading end of the device and being offset with respect to each other in normal, untensioned relation. to dispose certain of the longitudinal edges of the leg members in diverging relation toward the head, and means pro vided on said longitudinal edges adapted to engage in a work aperture to seat the ,device and re- -vided with series of shoulders adapted to engage sist withdrawal of the same from applied fastening position.

10. A separable fastening'device comprising a head, a shank, said shank comprising leg members integrally united to form a leading and for the device, said leg members extending in diverging relation toward said head and being laterally offset with respect to each other in normal, untensioned relation, said leg members being proin a work aperture to seat the device in applied fastening position.

11. A separable fastening device comprising a head, a shank, said shank comprising leg members integrally united to form a leading end for the device, said leg members extending in converging relation toward the leading end of the device and being offset with respect to each other in normaL'untensiQned relation to dispose certain of the longitudinal edges of the leg members in diverging relation toward the head, said longitudinal edges being provided with series of recesses presenting series of shoulders adaptedto engage. in a work aperture to seat the device in applied fastening position.

12. A fastening device comprising a head, a shank, said shank comprising leg members integrally united to form a leading end for the device, said leg members extending in diverging relation toward said head and being laterally offset with respect to each other in normal, untensioned relation, said leg members being provided with cam shoulders adapted to engage in a work aperture to seat the devicein applied fastening position.

13. A fastening device comprising a head, a

shank, said shank comprising leg members integrallyunited to form a leading end for the device, said leg members extending in converging relation toward the leading end of the deviceand being offset with respect to each other in normal, untensioned relation,to dispose certain of the longitudinal edges of the leg members in di-- verging relation toward the head, said longitudinal edges having cam shoulders adapted to engage in a work aperture to seat the device in applied fastening position.

14. For use in apertured work of predetermined thickness, a separable fastening device comprising a head, a shank, said shank comprising legmembers extending in diverging relation toward, said head and being laterally offset with respect to each other in normal, untensioned relation,

said head engaging one face of the work and said leg members being provided with a shoulder adapted to engage an opposite face of the work adjacent the aperture and cooperate with said head to retain the device in applied fastening position.

15. For use in apertured work of predetermined thickness, a separable fastening device comprising "a head, a shank. said shank comprising leg members extending in diverging relation towardsaid head and being laterally offset with respect to each other in normal, untensioned relation, a-

shoulder on each leg member adapted to engage a face of the work adjacent the aperture and cooperate with said head engaging an opposite face of the work to retain the device in applied.

fastening position.

16. For use in apertured work of predetermined thickness, a separable fastening device comprising a head, a shank, said'shank comprising leg,

members integrally united to form a leading end for the device, said leg members extending in converging relation toward the leading end of the. 

